Itchy Ella

[Emily]

Tomorrow will be six weeks since Ella's first dose of Cytopoint. This injection has been life changing. She's so happy, not scratching at all, and so well rested and comfortable (and even more nutty )

The vet hoped we'd make it somewhere between 4 and 8 weeks.

I'm going to call the vet tomorrow to book her in for her next injection on week 8, but make sure we can bring it forward at short notice if needed.

 

[M.F.]

Wonderful news about Ella!

Snowie has been on Apoquel for a couple of weeks. Our vet said Cytopoint is more effective and works out cheaper, but it’s out of stock.

Well, the Apoquel is magic. Although I do think it makes Snowie more sleepy. We’re only giving half a tablet at night. I went down to a quarter but he did scratch a little. The recommendation is 2 tablets per day for the first two weeks, then down to 1 per day, but our vet said we could reduce or stop at any time if his itching reduced. Unfortunately it doesn’t “cure” the itching, ie remove the cause; it just makes him feel less itchy. So, for example, his ears are still quite yeasty, but he’s not shaking his head or scratching his ears at all. I need to work out how to get to the root cause, but it’s so, so difficult with a scavenger!! I’m sure a carb-free diet would work wonders, but it’s impossible to adhere to—people toss half-eaten sandwiches and muffins on the pavement, much to Snowie’s delight!

 

[Emily]

Well I took Ella for her second Cytopoint injection last night as we're just approaching 8 weeks from the first dose. It's still working fantasticly and she's so happy and itch free. I chatted with the vet and we discussed watching and waiting as we approach the 8 week mark this time. It will be mid April so, if the itch is truly seasonal, then it may be OK over winter from there. If we see no return of discomfort, we may be able to resume injections in the spring.

It would be lovely if this is the case but, at the same time, I won't hesitate to continue if the itch returns.

I think I've said it a million times but this has been absolutely life changing for our dear girl

 

[Beanwood]

That's brilliant news @Emily!

 

[Loraseal]

@Emily how is Ella's itching? Is it seasonal?

 

[Emily]

@Emily how is Ella's itching? Is it seasonal?

Her itching has definitely settled down over winter and she hasn't needed the injections. I'm expecting that we'll need to start up again as so as the season turns.